Just five of the original 6.0 L Zondas were built, though it was still available in 2002 when the C12 S debuted. One was used for crash testing, while another was a demonstrator and show car. The remainder were delivered to customers during the next three years, priced at US$320,000.

The C12 could accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and hit 100 mph (160 km/h) in 8.2 seconds. Acceleration through the quarter mile was 12.1 seconds at 124 mph (200 km/h). Lateral acceleration on the skidpad was 0.93 g, and the car could brake from 60 mph (97 km/h) in 110 feet (34 m).